APC National Chairman Ganduje Resigns Amid Political Strains, Receives Praise from Peter Obi

 By Chukwuebuka Chukwuemeka

Abuja, June 28, 2025 – Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has formally resigned, citing deteriorating health and mounting internal pressures as key factors behind his unexpected departure on Friday, June 27.

Alhaji Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, Outgoing National Chairman of APC

Although Ganduje’s resignation letter, submitted to the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, referenced health concerns, multiple insiders say deeper political motivations were at play. A notable trigger appears to be the looming defection of former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso from the NNPP to the APC, a move that escalated long-standing tensions between the two and reportedly prompted Ganduje’s decision to step aside.

According to sources, senior APC officials, including Bashiru, appealed to Ganduje to reconsider, but by around 4:15 p.m. on Friday, he had submitted his resignation. Additional reports suggest that a top security official even visited Ganduje’s residence in the early hours to secure the letter amid political maneuvering tied to the 2027 campaign.

The resignation has reportedly cleared the way for Kwankwaso’s integration into the APC and provided flexibility over future alliances, including speculation that President Bola Tinubu may be preparing a revised ticket for 2027.

Within the party, Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, has been appointed acting chairman, in line with APC constitutional procedures. An emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting is expected soon to determine a permanent successor and to plan for a national convention slated for December 2025.

 

Ali Dalori, Acting National Chairman of APC

Peter Obi Applauds Ganduje’s Decision

Political figure Peter Obi, who led the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential race, extended his commendation to Ganduje via X (formerly Twitter). Obi described the decision as “wise and honourable,” emphasizing the need for leaders to recognize and act responsibly when health issues impede their duties. He added, “We can no longer afford leadership defined by medical tourism, long holidays, or absenteeism” and urged other public officeholders facing similar challenges to follow Ganduje’s example.

                        Mr. Peter Obi, Labour Party Presidential Flagbearer in the 2023 Elections

Obi’s endorsement also included warm wishes: he prayed that Ganduje might enjoy a “peaceful and fulfilling retirement” and encouraged a political culture rooted in accountability and full capacity to serve.

 

Implications for APC and National Politics

 Ganduje’s exit, already being described as forced, signals a major power shift, possibly setting the stage for Kwankwaso’s entry into APC and recalibrating the party’s 2027 election strategy. With ongoing tension between northern geo-political blocs, succession discussions include candidates from the North Central region such as Tanko Al-Makura and George Akume.  Ganduje joins a list of recent APC chairmen pressured to vacate office, reflecting a pattern of instability within the party, previous departures include Adams Oshiomhole, Mai Mala Buni, and Abdullahi Adamu.

 

What Comes Next?

Ali Dalori assumes acting chairman duties pending an official NEC appointment. APC is planning a national convention in December 2025 to install a substantive replacement. The party’s openness to Kwankwaso and strategic planning around 2027 will be key developments in the coming months. Ganduje’s resignation blends personal health concerns with significant political calculations. As the APC navigates its leadership transition and refocuses ahead of the 2027 elections, Peter Obi and other stakeholders will likely monitor both the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to attract high-profile figures like Kwankwaso.